Director, Animal and Plant Biosecurity Research and Diagnostics

• Head of the Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute
• Lead the science and build the research business behind NSW's biosecurity capability
• NSW Senior Executive Band 1 – TRP $269,540 to $295,234 (inclusive of super)

The Organisation
The Agriculture and Biosecurity Group plays a key role in protecting, supporting and developing sustainable, future-ready agricultural and biosecurity sectors across NSW. Within the Group, the Biosecurity and Food Safety division prevents, prepares for and responds to biosecurity and food safety risks across the state. At its centre is the Elizabeth Macarthur Agricultural Institute (EMAI) at Menangle, a nationally significant facility that combines diagnostics and research across the animal and plant biosecurity space, with substantial investment in infrastructure that gives NSW diagnostic capability many other jurisdictions cannot match.

The Role
As Director, Animal and Plant Biosecurity Research and Diagnostics, you will provide full site leadership at EMAI, directing the work of around 150 staff across the Institute's diagnostics and research functions, and chairing EMAI's Biosafety Committee.

Working closely with other Directors across DPIRD, you will develop and deliver a science and research strategy that underpins the state's animal and plant biosecurity objectives and aligns with national priorities. You will identify and evaluate co-investment opportunities, build the business case for scientific collaboration, and drive the development of innovative, responsive diagnostic services for biosecurity clients.

This is fundamentally a research business leadership role. You will champion the value of EMAI's research and diagnostics function, build strong connections across the Agriculture and Biosecurity Group, research bodies, universities and industry, and make the case for how the Institute's research investment translates into response capability. EMAI's diagnostics work does generate revenue, but its purpose is not to compete with commercial laboratories; its value lies in interpreting results and context for the clients it serves.

Workforce planning and capability development are a priority for EMAI, and you will play an active role in shaping the team's structure and skills for the future, while balancing research investment against the Institute's operational and emergency response commitments.

The role is primarily based at EMAI, Menangle, with an expectation of regular on-site presence, particularly in the early stages. Equally, the role requires a Director who is externally focused, building collaborations and partnerships rather than being deskbound.

The Person
You will bring a reputation and standing as a strong, proven leader in a field related to biosecurity, with significant governance, management and operational experience in research and diagnostics.

Above all, you will bring a research business mindset: the ability to advocate for research investment, connect commercial, scientific and policy perspectives, and build strong relationships with government, industry and research partners. A background with a research and development corporation may be well suited to this role; a purely academic background is less likely to translate without broader industry or commercial experience.

A background in animal health may be well suited given the current balance of work at EMAI. Tertiary qualifications in relevant sciences, or substantial demonstrated equivalent experience, are essential.

The Opportunity
This is an opportunity to lead one of Australia's most significant biosecurity science facilities, shaping how NSW invests in research and diagnostics capability and builds the skills and infrastructure needed to respond when the next biosecurity threat arrives. For a leader who can combine scientific credibility with genuine commercial and strategic acumen, this role offers real influence over the future of animal and plant biosecurity in NSW.

Why DPIRD
DPIRD is the department dedicated to growing primary industries and supporting regional economic development to deliver long term benefits to the state. Our focus is to protect, support and develop our primary industries, mining sector, and regions.

DPIRD brings together Agriculture and Biosecurity; Fisheries and Forestry; Local Land Services; NSW Resources; Regional Development and Delivery; the Regional Growth NSW Development Corporation; and NSW Public Works and Soil Conservation Service. We have nearly 5,000 employees, with almost 80 per cent of us living and working in regional NSW.

Diversity, equity and inclusion are central to DPIRD. We are committed to fostering a workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, reflecting the rich diversity of the communities we serve. We actively encourage individuals of all backgrounds – including but not limited to gender, age, ethnicity, race, cultural heritage, disability, religion and sexual orientation – to apply. We strive to ensure that every stage of the recruitment process and overall employee experience is accessible, welcoming and free from barriers.

Additional Information
A talent pool may be created from this recruitment action for ongoing and temporary roles of the same standard that may become available for filling over the next eighteen months. The successful applicant in this role may be required to undergo a police check, health assessment and other assessments as required.

How to apply
Candidate information: Please click on the "Additional Information" button to download a copy of the Candidate Information Pack. For more information, please contact email publicsector@derwentsearch.com.au or call Andrew McEncroe on 0416 018 860 quoting reference number: 34948.

To apply: Please provide a cover letter highlighting your suitability for the role and a resume by the due date.

Applications close: Sunday, 8 November 2026.